In this episode of Beyond the Trailhead, I sit down with Dan Durston, founder of Durston Gear and the mind behind some of the most talked-about ultralight tents in the backpacking world.
If you’ve spent time on trails like the Pacific Crest Trail or Appalachian Trail, chances are you’ve seen an X-Mid tent in the wild.
But the story behind Durston Gear is just as fascinating as the gear itself.
Dan shares how his obsession with ultralight backpacking gear started on hiking forums and long trails, eventually leading to the invention of the X-Mid tent design — an idea that first formed while hiking the Pacific Crest Trail.
beyond-the-trailhead-podcast-da…
We dive into the early days of the brand, licensing the design to a larger company, and the moment Dan had to remortgage his house to launch Durston Gear independently.
This episode is packed with insights for hikers, gear nerds, and anyone curious about building a company in the outdoor industry.
🏔️ In this episode we cover
🥾 How the X-Mid tent idea started while hiking the PCT
🎒 The evolution of ultralight backpacking gear
🏕️ Designing tents that balance weight, simplicity, and durability
📦 The risks of launching a gear brand
💸 Remortgaging a house to fund the first Durston Gear product launch
🌲 How community feedback shaped Durston Gear
🧠 Advice for entrepreneurs creating products in the outdoor industry
Dan also shares stories from the trail and explains why simple design often wins over complicated gear.
🌄 Connect with Durston Gear
Website
https://durstongear.com
Instagram
https://www.instagram.com/durstongear
YouTube
https://www.youtube.com/@durstongear
🎧 Listen to Beyond the Trailhead
▶️ YouTube: https://youtube.com/@Beyondthetrailhead
🍎 Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/beyond-the-trailhead/id1860050826
🎧 Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/11g9jx9Oyd2YSHipi0mmDy?si=72d97f11c5f64ea6
📸 Instagram:https://www.instagram.com/beyondthetrailheadpodcast
🌐 Website: https://obristimagery.com

For those asking about safety gear we use outdoors — you can get 15% off Overwatch x Rescue with code BEYOND15.

In this episode of Beyond the Trailhead, I sit down with Ben McMillen, founder of Hilltop Packs, one of the most recognizable custom gear companies in the ultralight backpacking world.
Hilltop Packs is known for their one-of-a-kind custom printed food bags, stuff sacks, backpacks, and ultralight gear that hikers proudly carry on trails across the world.
But the story behind the company is just as fascinating as the gear itself.
Ben shares how a photography studio, a print shop, and a simple idea to customize backpacking gear turned into a thriving outdoor brand.
We dive into the early days of Hilltop Packs, the explosive growth during COVID, and the huge risk Ben took when a Dyneema shortage threatened the entire company.
🏔️ In this episode we cover
🥾 How Hilltop Packs started in a basement
🎨 The origin of custom printed backpacking gear
📈 How COVID unexpectedly launched the brand forward
🧵 The challenge of sewing and producing one-off custom gear
📦 Why Hilltop focuses on small customizable items
⚠️ The massive risk Ben took buying nearly $100k of Dyneema
🧠 Lessons from running multiple businesses at once
🌲 The mindset required to grow an outdoor brand
If you’ve ever wondered what it takes to build a gear company from scratch or why so many hikers carry Hilltop gear — this episode is packed with insight.
🌄 Connect with Hilltop Packs
Website
https://hilltoppacks.com
Instagram
https://www.instagram.com/hilltoppacks
YouTube
https://www.youtube.com/@hilltoppacks
🎧 Listen to Beyond the Trailhead
▶️ YouTube: https://youtube.com/@Beyondthetrailhead
🍎 Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/beyond-the-trailhead/id1860050826
🎧 Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/11g9jx9Oyd2YSHipi0mmDy?si=72d97f11c5f64ea6
📸 Instagram:https://www.instagram.com/beyondthetrailheadpodcast
🌐 Website: https://obristimagery.com

For those asking about safety gear we use outdoors — you can get 15% off Overwatch x Rescue with code BEYOND15.

Guest: Tim Hunt — Lead Designer, SlingFin In this episode of Beyond the Trailhead, Craig sits down with Tim Hunt, lead designer at SlingFin, to break down how some of the most respected tents in the outdoor industry actually come to life. This conversation goes deep into design thinking, real-world testing, and the constant problem-solving that happens long before a tent ever hits the trail. Tim walks us through how SlingFin approaches structure, materials, storm-worthiness, and why design decisions are rarely simple — even when they look that way from the outside. We talk about: ⛺ How SlingFin designs tents for real conditions, not just specs 🧠 The design tradeoffs most people never think about 🧪 Prototyping, field testing, and learning from failure 🌬️ Why small structural changes can make or break a tent 🎒 How experience in the field directly shapes better gear If you’ve ever looked at a tent and wondered why it’s built that way — this episode pulls back the curtain. Whether you’re a gear nerd, designer, engineer, or just someone who sleeps outside a lot, this one is packed with insight. 🔗 Connect with SlingFin 🌐 Website: https://www.slingfin.com 📸 Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/slingfin ▶️ YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@SlingFin 🎧 Listen to Beyond the Trailhead ▶️ YouTube: https://youtube.com/@beyondthetrailhead 🍎 Apple 📸 Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/obristimagery 🌐 Website: https://obristimagery.com

Let’s go beyond the trailhead.

Guest: Devin Ashby — Creator & Owner of Backcountry Exposure In this episode of Beyond the Trailhead, Craig sits down with Devin Ashby, the creator behind Backcountry Exposure — a brand built one stitch at a time, often late at night, at a sewing machine in his own home. Devin shares the real, unfiltered journey of turning a decade of YouTube experience into a growing soft-goods business. We talk about what it’s like fulfilling 300+ bag orders solo, why small design details matter more than flashy features, and how years of relationship-building in the outdoor industry helped him survive legal battles, business pivots, and burnout. This episode dives into: 🧵 What it’s really like being a one-man gear brand (with a little help from family) 🎒 Why Devin is intentionally not making backpacks 🧠 The thinking behind food bags, ditty bags, and modular organization ⚖️ Navigating trademark issues, scaling limits, and work–family balance 💡 Why Devin has 6–7 new product ideas but refuses to rush them 🤝 How genuine relationships (not transactions) shape long-term success If you’ve ever wondered what goes on behind the scenes of cottage gear brands — or dreamed about building something of your own — this episode is honest, grounded, and incredibly relatable. 🔗 Connect with Backcountry Exposure 🌐 Website: https://backcountryexposure.com 📸 Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/backcountryexposure ▶️ YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@BackcountryExposure 🎧 Listen to Beyond the Trailhead ▶️ YouTube: https://youtube.com/@Beyondthetrailhead 📸 Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/obristimagery 🌐 Website: https://obristimagery.com • SUBSCRIBE 🔔 for more gear creators & outdoor founders Thanks for tuning in — let’s go beyond the trailhead.

🎙️ Beyond the Trailhead Podcast In this episode, Craig sits down with Josh Bryson, the creator of FKT Gear, a brand redefining what trail sunglasses should be. Frustrated with flimsy frames, foggy lenses, and gear that couldn’t keep up with real mountain conditions, Josh set out to engineer sunglasses that are tougher, clearer, lighter — and built specifically for hikers, runners, and adventurers pushing their limits. Josh breaks down: 🕶️ The exact moment he realized trail sunglasses needed a serious upgrade 🔧 How he engineered frames + lenses that survive real outdoor abuse 🌤️ Why clarity, contrast, and trail visibility matter more than people think 📦 The challenges of sourcing materials and building a product pipeline as a solo founder 💡 The unexpected lessons learned while launching a gear company from nothing 🌄 The FKT mindset — and how it shapes his design philosophy Whether you’re a thru-hiker, trail runner, gear nerd, or someone who has broken way too many sunglasses on trail — this story is going to hit home. 🔗 Connect with FKT Gear 🌐 Website — https://fktgear.com 📸 Instagram — https://instagram.com/fktgear 📘 Facebook — https://facebook.com/fktgear 🎧 Listen to Beyond the Trailhead ▶️ YouTube: https://youtube.com/@Beyondthetrailhead 📸 Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/obristimagery 🌐 Website: https://obristimagery.com SUBSCRIBE for more creators, innovators & outdoor entrepreneurs Thanks for tuning in — let’s go beyond the trailhead. #BeyondTheTrailhead #FKTGear #TrailSunglasses #OutdoorGear #UltralightGear #BackpackingGear #TrailRunningGear #GearInnovation #Podcast

In this episode, we sit down with Shawn Willette, the solo founder, designer, and engineer behind one of the most talked-about ultralight innovations in recent years — the AntiMatter Chair from No Matter. Shawn takes us through: • The exact moment the idea for the AntiMatter Chair hit him • How he engineered a chair that weighs almost nothing but holds full body weight • The brutal realities of being a one-person outdoor gear company • Sourcing materials, solving engineering failures, and navigating manufacturing • The emotional highs, lows, and “why am I doing this?” moments behind the brand • What’s next for No Matter — and why innovation always comes with risk If you love stories of grit, clever engineering, and the passion behind outdoor gear creation, this is an episode you won’t forget. 🔗 Connect with No Matter / AntiMatter Chair 🌐 Website: http://www.nomatterproducts.com/ 📸 Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/nomatterproducts 🎧 Listen to Beyond the Trailhead YouTube: https://youtube.com/@Beyondthetrailhead • SUBSCRIBE for more stories from outdoor creators, innovators & trail legends Thanks for tuning in — let’s go beyond the trailhead. #BeyondTheTrailhead #AntiMatterChair #NoMatterGear #UltralightGear #Backpacking #OutdoorInnovation #GearDesign #EntrepreneurStory #HikingGear #Podcast

🎙️ Beyond the Trailhead Podcast — Episode 8 Guest: Derek Tillotson — Creator & CEO of Haven Tents In this episode, Craig sits down with Derek Tilson, the inventor behind Haven Tents, the lay-flat hammock tent that has changed the way thousands of people camp. From rough sketches and field tests to scaling a full outdoor brand, Derek shares the real story behind building one of the most innovative sleep systems in the backcountry world. We dive into: 🌲 How the idea for a flat-lay hammock was born 🛠️ The biggest challenges in designing a brand-new type of tent 💡 What it took to launch Haven Tents into a global community 🏕️ The outdoor industry lessons no one talks about 🔥 Derek’s advice for creators, builders, and anyone chasing their own idea If you love gear, innovation, or stories of entrepreneurs who push the outdoor industry forward — this episode is for you. 🌐 Connect with Haven Tents & Derek Tillotson Website: https://haventents.com Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/haventents TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@haventents Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/haventents YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@HavenTents LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/haven-tents • SUBSCRIBE for more episodes with outdoor creators, innovators & adventurers Thanks for tuning in — let’s go beyond the trailhead. #BeyondTheTrailhead #HavenTents #CampingGear #OutdoorInnovation #HammockCamping #BackpackingSleepSystem #Podcast

🎙️ Beyond the Trailhead Podcast Guest: Natalie Barral Summit day on Mount Whitney turned into one of the wildest survival stories we’ve ever shared on Beyond the Trailhead. In this episode, Craig talks with Natalie, a hiker who faced a brutal storm, a sprained ankle miles from the trailhead, and a night on the mountain that ended with a helicopter rescue. From hail and lightning to trail angels and real lessons in backcountry safety, this is one episode you won’t forget. ⚡ Hear how quick decisions, the right gear, and a little luck made all the difference. 🌲 Learn what to pack, what to expect, and how to keep calm when things go sideways. 🎧 Listen to more Beyond the Trailhead episodes: https://youtube.com/@Beyondthetrailhead 📸 Follow Natalie’s baking & adventure journey on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/classicnb_jadore_manger 🎙️ Follow Craig & Unchong Obrist: Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/obristimagery Website: https://obristimagery.com ✅ • Share this with your trail-partner or gear-head friend Thanks for tuning in — let’s go beyond the trailhead!

🎙️ Beyond the Trailhead Podcast Guest: Brian Davis — Co-Owner, Hollow Socks Join us for one of the most passionate and entertaining episodes yet with Brian Davis, the co-owner and inventor behind Hollow Socks — the ultralight, breathable socks designed to keep your feet dry, cool, and comfortable no matter how far the trail takes you. In this episode, Brian shares his creative journey — from designing innovative cycling and outdoor gear to launching Hollow Socks, a company born from his obsession with solving one of hiking’s biggest problems: sticky, sweaty feet. His energy and enthusiasm are contagious as he talks about the process of invention, the lessons he’s learned building products that people truly love, and what it means to turn frustration into innovation. Whether you’re a hiker, cyclist, or just someone who’s ever hated sticky feet — this episode is packed with laughs, insights, and a ton of inspiration from a mind that never stops creating. 🔗 Connect with Hollow Socks 🌐 Website: https://www.hollowsocks.com 📸 Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/hollowsocks 📘 Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/hollowsocks 💼 LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/hollow-socks ▶️ YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@HollowSocks ✅ • Share this with your trail-partner or gearhead friend Thanks for tuning in — let’s go beyond the trailhead! #BeyondTheTrailhead #HollowSocks #OutdoorInnovation #GearTalk #Podcast

🎙️ Beyond the Trailhead Podcast Guest: Mike Glavin — Founder & CEO, Zenbivy Join us for an inspiring conversation with Mike Glavin, the creator and CEO of Zenbivy, the company redefining backcountry sleep with its modular, ultra-comfortable sleep systems. In this episode, we dive into Mike’s journey — from years of working for major outdoor brands to taking the leap and building his own. He shares the story behind Zenbivy’s innovative design philosophy, what makes their sleep system truly unique, and how his incredible team continues to push the boundaries of comfort and performance in the outdoors. We also talk about lessons learned in the outdoor industry, creative leadership, and the balance between innovation and simplicity. Whether you’re a weekend camper, a thru-hiker chasing miles, or just someone who appreciates a good night’s sleep under the stars — this episode is packed with insight, passion, and inspiration. 🔗 Connect with Zenbivy 🌐 Website: https://alnk.to/af19ott 📸 Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/zenbivy 📘 Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/zenbivy ▶️ YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@Zenbivy 💼 LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/zenbivy • Share this with your trail-partner or camping crew Thanks for tuning in — let’s go beyond the trailhead! #BeyondTheTrailhead #Zenbivy #OutdoorIndustry #BackcountryGear #Podcast

🎙️ Beyond the Trailhead Podcast Guest: Deed — Founder & CEO, RecPak Join us for a powerful conversation with Deed, the creator and CEO of RecPak, the high-calorie, ultralight meal system built for serious expeditions, thru-hikes, and demanding backcountry missions. In this episode, we dig into the origin of RecPak — how a search for reliable nutrition on long expeditions turned into a full-scale performance meal company. Deed shares the challenges of building trust in a crowded outdoor marketplace, the science behind RecPak’s formulation, and why fueling adventure is about more than just calories. We also talk about expedition prep, endurance mindset, and what it takes to build gear (and food) that people truly depend on in extreme environments. Whether you’re a thru-hiker, mountain athlete, or someone curious about how innovation fuels adventure — this episode delivers practical wisdom and trail-tested inspiration. Buy RecPak : https://amzn.to/47gAChc 🔗 Connect with RecPak 🌐 Website: https://www.recpak.co 📸 Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/recpak.co 📘 Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/recpak.co 💼 LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/recpak (if applicable) ✅ • Share this with your trail-partner or backcountry crew Thanks for tuning in — let’s go beyond the trailhead! #BeyondTheTrailhead #RecPak #BackpackingMeals #OutdoorNutrition #Podcast

🎙️ Beyond the Trailhead Podcast Guest: Holly Jaleski — Chief Creative Officer, Grubcan Join us for an inspiring conversation with Holly Jaleski, Chief Creative Officer at Grubcan, a brand bringing innovation, humor, and true personality to the world of backcountry bear safety and wildlife gear. In this episode, we dive into Holly’s creative journey, the story behind Grubcan’s bold identity, and how they’re changing the way outdoor brands connect with real adventurers. We talk about product design and why Grubcan is more than just gear — it’s a movement rooted in education, safety, and unforgettable branding. Holly also shares behind-the-scenes insights on launching products, building community trust, and the importance of not giving up in the outdoor industry. Whether you’re a gear junkie, designer, or just love brands with heart and humor — this episode is packed with insight and inspiration. 🔗 Connect with Grubcan 🌐 Website: https://grubcan.com 📸 Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/grubcan 📘 Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/grubcan ▶️ YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@grubcan (if applicable) 💼 LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/grubcan Don’t forget to: • Like 👍 and Subscribe 🔔 for more episodes• Share this with your trail-partner or creative crew Thanks for tuning in — let’s go beyond the trailhead! #BeyondTheTrailhead #Grubcan #OutdoorIndustry #GearInnovation #Podcast

🎙️ Episode 20 – Luke Pearsall | Founder of Trail Goods Company
What happens when you pour everything into your dream… and it almost disappears overnight?
In this episode of Beyond the Trailhead, I sit down with Luke Pearsall, founder of Trail Goods Company, to unpack one of the most honest founder stories we’ve had on the show.
Luke went from a 20-year career in commercial photography to building a premium backcountry food brand — only to lose his manufacturer, his inventory, and nearly his entire business in one blow.
At one point, he had just $575 left in the bank before heading to a major trade show.
This conversation is raw, real, and packed with insight for anyone building something in the outdoor industry.
In this episode we cover:
🥾 Why most freeze-dried meals miss the mark
🔥 The true cost of sampling food at trade shows
📦 What it means to lose your entire inventory for 8 months
💸 Bootstrapping when everything is on the line
🏭 USDA regulations, freeze-drying, and manufacturing reality
🧠 The mindset required to survive as a small brand founder
🎄 The “Christmas miracle” that saved Trail Goods
Luke doesn’t just talk about food — he talks about resilience, risk, and what it actually takes to build something from scratch.
If you’ve ever considered launching a product-based business… this episode will hit home.
🌄 Connect with Trail Goods Company
Website: https://trailgoodscompany.com
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/trailgoodscompany
🎧 Listen to Beyond the Trailhead
▶️ YouTube: https://youtube.com/@Beyondthetrailhead
🍎 Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/beyond-the-trailhead/id1860050826
🎧 Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/11g9jx9Oyd2YSHipi0mmDy?si=72d97f11c5f64ea6
📸 Instagram:https://www.instagram.com/beyondthetrailheadpodcast
🌐 Website: https://obristimagery.com

For those asking about safety gear we use outdoors — you can get 15% off Overwatch x Rescue with code BEYOND15.

🎙️ Beyond the Trailhead Podcast Guest: Maximilian Lenk — CEO of X-BIONIC Join us for a fascinating conversation with Maximilian Lenk, CEO of X-BIONIC, the Swiss brand redefining high-performance apparel through science, innovation, and cutting-edge design. In this episode, we dive into the story behind X-BIONIC’s revolutionary technologies, how they’ve blended biology and engineering to create gear that helps athletes perform at their peak, and Maximilian’s perspective on leading a company that pushes the limits of outdoor and sports apparel. We’ll also talk about their incredible line of performance shoes, built with the same innovation and precision that made X-BIONIC famous in the endurance world. Whether you’re an endurance athlete, weekend adventurer, or just curious about how innovation shapes the outdoor industry — this episode is packed with insight and inspiration. 🔗 Connect with X-BIONIC 🌐 Website: https://www.x-bionic.com 📸 Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/xbionic 📘 Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/XBIONICOfficial ▶️ YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@xbionic 💼 LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/x-bionic ✅

Share this with your trail-partner or training crew Thanks for tuning in — let’s go beyond the trailhead! #BeyondTheTrailhead #XBIONIC #PerformanceGear #OutdoorIndustry #Podcast

Our Instagram:https://www.instagram.com/obristimagery

🎙️ Beyond the Trailhead Podcast

Guest: Scott Jensen — Founder & CEO of Near Zero

Join us for a deep and inspiring conversation with Scott Jensen, the creator and CEO of Near Zero, a company on a mission to make lightweight, high-quality backpacking gear more accessible and user-friendly.

In this episode, we dive into Scott’s outdoor roots, how the famous DEAN backpack came to life, and what it takes to grow a gear brand that truly serves the hiking community. We’ll also talk about Near Zero’s new rental program, their latest product updates, and the future of ultralight adventure gear.

Whether you’re a seasoned thru-hiker, weekend backpacker, or just curious about the business of outdoor gear — this episode is packed with insights and stories you won’t want to miss.

🔗 Connect with Near Zero

🌐 Website: https://nearzero.co

📖 About: https://nearzero.co/pages/about

📸 Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/nearzero_outdoors

📘 Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/nearzerogear

▶️ YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@nearzero_outdoors

💼 LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/near-zero

✅ Don’t forget to:

• Drop a comment — what part of Scott’s journey inspired you?

• Share this with your trail-partner or hiking group

Thanks for tuning in — let’s go beyond the trailhead!

#BeyondTheTrailhead #NearZero #Backpacking #OutdoorGear #Podcast

Guest: Louise Barton — Founder of Farm to Summit
Join us for an inspiring conversation with Louise “Lou” Barton, founder of Farm to Summit, a Durango-based company making dehydrated backpacking meals sourced from local farms and up-cycled produce.
Lou shares how a 23-day Yellowstone backcountry research trip — and watching her coworkers struggle on low-quality trail food — sparked the idea for Farm to Summit. What started with a home dehydrator and farmers markets has grown into a mission-driven brand focused on sustainability, flavor, and fueling real adventures.
In this episode we dive into:
🥕 Sourcing thousands of pounds of produce from local farms
🌱 Using up-cycled vegetables to reduce food waste
📈 Growing slowly and sustainably instead of scaling too fast
👩‍👧 Balancing entrepreneurship, motherhood, and the outdoors
🥘 Why taste tests and quality control matter more than hype
🏔️ How the outdoor community shapes their meals and mission
From feeding thru-hikers and climbers to families and even diplomats abroad, Farm to Summit meals are showing up in some unexpected places — and the stories behind them are powerful.
If you love backpacking, food, or founder stories, this episode is packed with insight and heart.
🔗 Connect with Farm to Summit
🌐 Website: https://www.farmtosummit.com
Buy on REI https://app.rockporch.com/mlink/qIi4bkn5nv
📸 Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/farmtosummit
📘 Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/farmtosummit
📍 Store Locator: https://www.farmtosummit.com
🎧 Listen to Beyond the Trailhead
▶️ YouTube: https://youtube.com/@Beyondthetrailhead
🍎 Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/beyond-the-trailhead/id1860050826
🎧 Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/11g9jx9Oyd2YSHipi0mmDy?si=72d97f11c5f64ea6
📸 Instagram:https://www.instagram.com/beyondthetrailheadpodcast
🌐 Website: https://obristimagery.com

In this episode of Beyond the Trailhead, Craig sits down with Jacob Muth, founder of Leichtmut, a small but innovative brand creating ultralight camera bags for hikers and outdoor photographers.
Jacob shares how frustration with heavy camera carry systems and wet gear on trail pushed him to start designing his own solutions. What began as a MYOG (Make Your Own Gear) hobby turned into a real business focused on ultralight, waterproof, and quick-access camera bags for people who refuse to leave their camera behind.
We dive into:
📸 Why most camera bags fail on trail
💧 How Jacob designed a zipper-free, waterproof system
🧵 The trial-and-error of sewing and prototyping gear himself
🌍 How a crisis and career pivot led to launching Leichtmut
📦 Learning advertising, pricing, and scaling as a one-person brand
🎒 Why ultralight hikers are told to ditch their camera — and why Jacob disagrees
If you’re a photographer, thru-hiker, or dreaming about building your own gear brand, this episode is packed with honest lessons and creative problem-solving.
🔗 Connect with Leichtmut
🌐 Website: https://www.leichtmut.de
📸 Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/leichtmut.gear/
🎧 Listen to Beyond the Trailhead
▶️ YouTube: https://youtube.com/@Beyondthetrailhead
🍎 Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/beyond-the-trailhead/id1860050826
🎧 Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/11g9jx9Oyd2YSHipi0mmDy?si=72d97f11c5f64ea6
📸 Instagram:https://www.instagram.com/beyondthetrailheadpodcast
🌐 Website: https://obristimagery.com

🎙️ Beyond the Trailhead Podcast — Episode 17
Guest: Gilad Nachmani — Founder & CEO of Cnoc Outdoors / Minimal Gear
In this episode of Beyond the Trailhead, Craig sits down with Gilad Nachmani, founder of Cnoc Outdoors, one of the most recognizable names in ultralight hydration and backpacking gear.
Gilad shares the real story behind Cnoc — from launching the original Vecto water container on Kickstarter with almost no money, to scrambling to fulfill thousands of orders after an unexpected review from Darwin on the Trail. What started as a niche ultralight idea quickly became a must-have for thru-hikers worldwide.
But this episode goes deeper than gear.
Gilad talks honestly about the romantic myth of entrepreneurship, the realities of forecasting, manufacturing, and MOQs, and why most people underestimate how hard it is to build a product company. His advice for new founders might surprise you: sometimes the best advice is “don’t do it” unless you’re ready for everything that comes after the idea.
We also dive into:
💧 How the Vecto changed water carry for hikers
🏕️ The ultralight gear world and thru-hiker feedback loops
📦 Kickstarter lessons and early manufacturing struggles
🧠 Why scaling turns you into an employer, not a maker
🌲 Gilad’s love for trails and the outdoor community
If you’re a hiker, gear nerd, or founder thinking about starting a brand — this episode is packed with hard-earned wisdom.
🔗 Connect with Minimal Gear/Cnoc Outdoors
🌐 Website: https://cnocoutdoors.com
📸 Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/cnocoutdoors
📘 Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/cnocoutdoors
▶️ YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@cnocoutdoors
🎧 Listen to Beyond the Trailhead
▶️ YouTube: https://youtube.com/@beyondthetrailhead
🍎 Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/beyond-the-trailhead/id1860050826
🎧 Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/11g9jx9Oyd2YSHipi0mmDy?si=72d97f11c5f64ea6
📸 Instagram:https://www.instagram.com/beyondthetrailheadpodcast
🌐 Website: https://obristimagery.com

🎙️ Beyond the Trailhead Podcast — Episode 16
Guest: Tayson Whittaker — Founder & CEO of Outdoor Vitals
In this episode of Beyond the Trailhead, Craig sits down with Tayson Whitaker, founder and CEO of Outdoor Vitals, for one of the most honest conversations yet about building a gear company the hard way — slowly, intentionally, and without shortcuts.
Tayson shares what it was really like starting Outdoor Vitals at 23 years old with no money, why he rejected outside funding, and how a decade of pivots, patience, and painful lessons shaped the brand Outdoor Vitals is today. We go deep into product design, manufacturing realities, testing limits, and the moments where one wrong decision could have sunk the entire company.
This episode dives into:
🤔 The quiet doubts and heavy decisions founders don’t talk about
🏕️ How Outdoor Vitals designs and tests gear over years, not months
💡 Why perfection doesn’t exist — and when to finally ship a product
💸 The danger of “overnight success” and scaling too fast
🧠 Lessons learned from 12 years of building, failing, and refining
🌲 How Tayson keeps his love for the outdoors alive while running a business
If you’re an outdoor enthusiast, gear nerd, or entrepreneur trying to build something meaningful — this episode is packed with clarity, perspective, and long-game thinking.
🔗 Connect with Outdoor Vitals
🌐 Website: https://alnk.to/cSL4LQW
📸 Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/outdoorvitals
▶️ YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@OutdoorVitals
📘 Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/OutdoorVitals
🎧 Listen to Beyond the Trailhead
▶️ YouTube: https://youtube.com/@beyondthetrailhead
🍎 Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/beyond-the-trailhead/id1860050826
🎧 Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/11g9jx9Oyd2YSHipi0mmDy?si=72d97f11c5f64ea6
📸 Instagram:https://www.instagram.com/beyondthetrailheadpodcast
🌐 Website: https://obristimagery.com

In this episode of Beyond the Trailhead, Craig sits down with Lisa-Jae Eggert, founder of 3 Moms Organics and creator of TickWise, a plant-based bug and tick spray born from a life-altering personal battle with tick-borne disease.
Lisa-Jae shares her harrowing journey—from a single tick bite that led to years of misdiagnosis, neurological Lyme disease, and devastating health consequences, to building a product with one clear mission: help prevent others from ever going through what she did.
We dive into:
🦠 How Lyme disease nearly destroyed her family
🌿 Why she had to create a natural alternative to DEET and permethrin
🧪 The intense EPA process required to prove TickWise works as well as DEET
📦 Bootstrapping production from her basement to tens of thousands of bottles
🧠 Why education and prevention matter more than profit
❤️ What it means to truly build a mission-driven business
This is not just a founder story — it’s a conversation about health, prevention, and protecting families, hikers, kids, and pets outdoors.
If you spend time outside, this episode could change how you think about ticks forever.
🔗 Connect with TickWise / 3 Moms Organics
🛒 Shop: https://amzn.to/4r9URpf
🌐 Website: https://www.3momsorganics.com
📸 Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/3momsorganics
📘 Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/3momsorganics
🎧 Listen to Beyond the Trailhead
▶️ YouTube: https://youtube.com/@beyondthetrailhead
🍎 Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/beyond-the-trailhead/id1860050826
🎧 Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/11g9jx9Oyd2YSHipi0mmDy?si=be0cf2ba11a447de
📸 Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/obristimagery
🌐 Website: https://obristimagery.com

🎙️ Beyond the Trailhead Podcast — Episode 14
Guest: Nora Fierman — Founder of NEVE
In this episode of Beyond the Trailhead, Craig sits down with Nora Fierman, founder of NEVE, a plant-based smoothie pouch designed for athletes who want real nutrition in the backcountry.
Nora shares the full, honest story behind NEVE—from noticing athletes fueling with baby food in the backcountry, to spending six years navigating food science, manufacturing, and rejection before finally launching her brand. We dive into why flavor matters, why every ingredient has a purpose, and how NEVE fits perfectly between energy bars and gels.
This conversation goes beyond food. Nora opens up about being a solo founder, balancing a full-time job, building thicker skin, learning to ask for help, and staying connected to the outdoors while growing a business. We also talk inclusivity in outdoor nutrition, why fueling shouldn’t feel intimidating, and how NEVE has unexpectedly helped people far beyond endurance sports.
If you’re an athlete, founder, or someone standing at the trailhead of a big idea—this episode is for you.
🔗 Connect with NEVE & Nora
🌐 Website: https://eatneve.com
📸 Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/eat_neve
🎵 TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@eatneve
🎧 Listen to Beyond the Trailhead
🍎 Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/beyond-the-trailhead/id1860050826
🎧 Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/11g9jx9Oyd2YSHipi0mmDy?si=72d97f11c5f64ea6

▶️ YouTube: https://youtube.com/@Beyondthetrailhead
📸 Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/obristimagery
🌐 Website: https://obristimagery.com

Guest: Jim Wirth — Creator, GiantMouse Join us for a deep and fascinating conversation with Jim Wirth, co-founder and CEO of GiantMouse Knives — a boutique knife brand known for thoughtful design, premium materials, and unforgettable storytelling. In this episode, Jim shares how a lifelong passion for knives, a chance meeting at a New York knife show, and a bold leap from the corporate world led to the creation of GiantMouse. We dive into the meaning behind the GiantMouse name, why limited runs matter, and how Scandinavian design principles shape every knife they make. Jim also opens up about the oh-crap moments of running a product brand — including production setbacks, supply-chain realities, and learning when to delay a launch in order to protect quality and trust. We talk everyday carry, why knives are more relevant than ever, the crossover between watches and knives, and how GiantMouse balances creativity with business discipline. Whether you’re into EDC gear, knives, design, or building a brand from the ground up, this episode is packed with insight, honesty, and passion you don’t want to miss. 🔗 Connect with GiantMouse Knives 🌐 Website: https://www.giantmouse.com 📸 Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/giantmouseknives 📘 Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/giantmouseknives ▶️ YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@giantmouseknives 💼 LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/giantmouse-knives 🎧 Listen to Beyond the Trailhead ▶️ YouTube: https://youtube.com/@Beyondthetrailhead 🍎 Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/beyond-the-trailhead/id1860050826 🎧 Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/11g9jx9Oyd2YSHipi0mmDy?si=be0cf2ba11a447de 📸 Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/obristimagery 🌐 Website: https://obristimagery.com